WICKED movie tickets now on sale!

Don’t miss the chance to be part of one of 2024’s most anticipated movies, as tickets to “Wicked” are now available! The big-screen adaptation to the hit musical phenomenon is coming to Philippine theaters on November 20, but fans and moviegoers can now reserve tickets as early as today.

Watch the announcement, with a snippet from the songs “Popular” and “Defying Gravity” here:

Check out the ticketing sites of your local cinemas to reserve seats for Wicked.

After two decades as one of the most beloved and enduring musicals on the stage, Wicked makes its long-awaited journey to the big screen as a spectacular, generation-defining cinematic event.

Wicked, the untold story of the witches of Oz, stars Emmy, Grammy and Tony winning powerhouse Cynthia Erivo (Harriet, Broadway’s The Color Purple) as Elphaba, a young woman, misunderstood because of her unusual green skin, who has yet to discover her true power, and Grammy-winning, multi-platinum recording artist and global superstar Ariana Grande as Glinda, a popular young woman, gilded by privilege and ambition, who has yet to discover her true heart.

The film also stars Oscar® winner Michelle Yeoh as Shiz University’s regal headmistress Madame Morrible; Jonathan Bailey (Bridgerton, Fellow Travelers) as Fiyero, a roguish and carefree prince; Tony nominee Ethan Slater (Broadway’s Spongebob Squarepants, Fosse/Verdon) as Boq, an altruistic Munchkin student; Marissa Bode in her feature-film debut as Nessarose, Elphaba’s favored sister; and pop culture icon Jeff Goldblum as the legendary Wizard of Oz.

The cast of characters includes Pfannee and ShenShen, two conniving compatriots of Glinda played by Emmy nominee Bowen Yang (Saturday Night Live) and Bronwyn James (Harlots); a new character created for the film, Miss Coddle, played by Tony nominee Keala Settle (The Greatest Showman) and four-time Emmy winner Peter Dinklage (Game of Thrones) as the voice of Dr. Dillamond.

Wicked is produced by Marc Platt (La La Land, The Little Mermaid), whose films, television shows and stage productions have earned a combined 46 Oscar® nominations, 58 Emmy nominations and 36 Tony nominations, and by multiple Tony winner David Stone (Kimberly Akimbo, Next to Normal), with whom Platt produced the blockbuster Wicked stage musical. The executive producers are David Nicksay, Stephen Schwartz and Jared LeBoff.

Based on the bestselling novel by Gregory Maguire, Wicked is adapted for the screen by the stage production’s book writer Winnie Holzman and by legendary Grammy and Oscar® winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz. The Broadway stage musical is produced by Universal Stage Productions, Marc Platt, the Araca Group, Jon B. Platt and David Stone. 

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Jon M. Chu (Crazy Rich Asians, In the Heights), Wicked is the first chapter of a two-part immersive, cultural celebration. Wicked Part Two is scheduled to arrive in theaters on November 26, 2025.

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Connecting Smarter Homes: LG ThinQ App Powers IoT Integration with 5G Network

LG Philippines recently showcased its leadership in smart home technology through an exhibit collaboration with DITO HOME WOWFi, the world’s first 5G RedCap Wi-Fi for home.

This collaboration highlights LG's commitment to enhancing smart home experiences by integrating LG appliances with DITO’s next-gen technology. The LG ThinQ App harnesses AI to optimize appliance performance and adapt to individual lifestyles, streamlining tasks by learning user preferences. With true 5G, users can enjoy smoother interactions between devices, allowing them to fully appreciate the seamless experience of AI-powered living.

LG ThinQ App: The Heart of Smart Living
A key element of LG's involvement in the event was its focus on how the LG ThinQ App centralizes home control, acting as a bridge between the 5G internet connectivity and LG appliances. The LG ThinQ App powers an effortlessly connected IoT experience by enabling users to control, monitor, and manage a wide range of home appliances from anywhere—showing how the app is the ultimate tool for modern smart living. LG ThinQ empowers users to stay connected and in control, even on the go.

Enhancing Convenience and Efficiency
Featured in the DITO Home Smart home display were the following innovative LG appliances, each equipped with advanced features designed to boost your everyday routine:

1. Remote Access and Control
With the LG ThinQ app, users gain control over their appliances, enabling them to monitor and manage household tasks remotely. Imagine multitasking while doing laundry—manage your LG Objet WashTower™ from the comfort of your couch while using the ThinQ App as a remote while watching your favorite show on your LG OLED AI TV. You can even use the ThinQ app with your LG StanbyME, seamlessly controlling entertainment options while staying on top of your household chores from anywhere in your home. This level of control allows for a more balanced and organized lifestyle, freeing up time for leisure or other important activities.

LG CordZero All-in-One Vacuum, LG PuriCare AeroTower, LG OLED evo AI TV, LG StanbyME, LG Objet InstaView Refrigerator 

2. Smart Scheduling and Automation
The LG ThinQ app provides easy scheduling and automation features that allow users to customize their appliance usage to fit their daily routines. You can set your appliances to turn on at specific times, ensuring your home remains optimal and comfortable. For instance, program your LG Puricare™ AeroTower™ to clean the air just before you arrive home. You can also keep an eye on your usage duration to ensure optimal performance. Like with the LG CordZero™ All-in-One Tower Vacuum, you can check battery life and receive notifications when it’s time to recharge, ensuring that your vacuum is always ready for efficient cleaning.

LG StanbyMe, LG Objet InstaView Refrigerator, LG NeoChef Microwave and Grill Oven, LG WashTower 

LG CordZero All-in-One Tower Vacuum

3. Energy Consumption Insights

The LG ThinQ app provides valuable insights into energy consumption, enabling homeowners to make informed decisions about their usage patterns. By tracking energy usage, users can identify trends and adjust settings to enhance efficiency, just like how the LG Objet InstaView™ Refrigerator, equipped with smart technology, helps keep food at peak freshness while consuming less energy, ultimately reducing utility costs. If you're in the middle of cooking with your LG NeoChef™ Grill Microwave Oven and notice an issue, you can quickly troubleshoot any issues directly through the app. This feature ensures that the appliance operates effectively, minimizing downtime and preventing unnecessary energy waste.

5G and LG Appliances in Harmony
The seamless integration of 5G internet with LG appliances, powered by the LG ThinQ app, enhances convenience, productivity, and sustainability in modern homes. By enabling faster, more reliable connections, LG Appliances operate optimally, allowing users to control and automate tasks easily.

Life’s about more than having the latest technology; it’s about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers top-of-the-line appliances that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide—across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. For more information, visit their website at www.lg.com/ph and follow their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and YouTube (@lgphilippines).

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DITO Home WOWFi: Powering The Future of Digital Homes

DITO Telecommunity, the fastest-growing telco in the country, is driving the future of digital homes as it recently launched its newest DITO Home WOWFi, the first 5G RedCap WiFi in the world for home use powered by DITO's true 5G network.

According to Ms. Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business, this latest home broadband offering aims to provide Filipino households the home internet they need as they usher their way in this era of smart homes and digital innovations.

"As we embrace digital transformations, we come in as a young telco to help Filipinos thrive in the digital age, helping them connect, learn, and grow without barriers. Indeed, we can truly power the future of digital homes in the Philippines,” Jimenez said.

Ms. Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Telecommunity Chief Revenue Officer - Consumer

5G RedCap is a new 5G standard and critical evolution of 5G originally called NR Light, an essential part of lightweight 5G offering the right balance of 5G capabilities such as low latency, high peak data rate, and maximum capacity.

This emerging technology is globally used for industrial and manufacturing. But here in the Philippines, DITO is bringing this technology straight to Filipino homes, allowing households to enjoy the benefits of 5G at a very affordable price.

“We are confident that RedCap will reshape how homes access the internet, providing an affordable, reliable, and high-performance alternative to existing technologies,” said Ret. Maj. Gen. Rodolfo Santiago, Chief Technology Officer of DITO Telecommunity.

Ret. Maj. Gen. Rodolfo Santiago, DITO Telecommunity Chief Technology Officer

DITO officially launched its latest product offering during its recent Next-Gen Home Connectivity Media Conference on October 18. DITO gathered several technology experts to share their insights and perspectives about RedCap technology and its contribution to Filipino households' digital transformations.

Guest speaker Abe Olandres, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Yugatech, shared that RedCap is a simplified and cost-effective 5G connection where users can enjoy the advantages of 5G without the need for high bandwidth He also explained that RedCap only operates on 5G Standalone networks, which can deliver the true 5G experience to Filipino households.

Abe Olandres, Editor and Chief and Founder - Yugatech

“5G RedCap does not mean reduced benefits. On the contrary, it perfectly fits the needs for specific cases, uses and devices. It offers a great middle ground for a problem that’s been waiting for a reasonable solution since the mass adoption of 5G,” Olandres said.

Meanwhile, Art Samaniego, Information and Communications Technology Head of Manila Bulletin, discussed the numerous benefits of 5G RedCap to Filipino households, such as increased capacity for more devices, smart home innovation, stable performance for wearables, more reliable connection for remote work, online learning, and micro businesses.

Mr. Art Samaniego, ICT Head - Manila Bulletin

“5G RedCap technology opens up incredible opportunities for Filipino households. From increased network capacity, to enhanced smart home automation, reliable connections for work and education, and improved performance of wearables, RedCap truly brings the future into our homes. It represents a smarter, safer, and more efficient way of living, bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and practical everyday benefits,” Samaniego said.

Samaniego and Olandres also stressed that RedCap plays a vital role in the broader adoption of 5G  This technology will connect more devices to 5G networks and expand the 5G ecosystem, which can drive the growth of 5G in the country.

Mr. Jasper Evangelista, DITO Brand and Marketing Director, highlighted the numerous advantages of the new DITO Home WOWFi. He stated, “As we introduce this new technology in the market, we want to debunk the notion that 5G is only for the elite or privileged. This product will make 5G more accessible to everyone, especially for the underserved market.” Evangelista added, “DITO Home WOWFi has the potential to truly power the future of digital homes across the Philippines.”

Mr. Jasper Evangelista, DITO Telecommunity Brand and Marketing Director

During the media conference, Evangelista, along with invited technology experts and guests like Jayvee Fernandez, technology editor of the Philippine Star, Joey Ong, founder of DadBudPH, and Cleo Loque, owner of Hiraya Pilipina, discussed the importance of internet connectivity in their everyday lives. Fernandez highlighted a key benefit of DITO Home WOWFi—its wireless setup, which eliminates issues with cut wires. Meanwhile, Ong emphasized how the new technology supports parents working from home, while Loque shared how DITO Home WOWFI’s easy plug-and-play feature can help boost her productivity and support the growth of her online business.

L-R: Mr. Art Samaniego, Mr. Jayvee Fernandez, Mr. Abe Olandres, Vince Velasco (host), Ms. Cleo Loque, Mr. Joey Ong, Mr. Jasper Evangelista

DITO Home WOWFi– Your All-Around Home WiFi

Powered by DITO's true 5G network, DITO Home WOWFi is the most value-packed wireless broadband in the market. Its starter kit is priced at Php 1,990 with complimentary unlimited 5G data and bonus 50GB 4G data for 30 days.  The succeeding monthly load option is only at Php 790 for 30 days with UNLI 5G and bonus 50GB 4G data, which only applies to 4G covered areas.

DITO Home's pioneering product is made possible through its partnership with Huawei Technologies, a global leader in 5G deployment.

Step into the future of next-gen home connectivity with DITO Home WOWFi, now available at the DITO e-Shop, DITO Experience Stores, Device Retail Partners, Sales Blitzes, and DITO official stores in Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok.

For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

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LG presents global music festival "Boom Boom Pow Festa" powered by LG XBoom

Music Performers from 9 countries Creatively Reinterpret Legendary Party Anthem, “Boom Boom Pow” to Captivate Audiences Worldwide

The Juans representing the Philippines in the LG Boom Boom Pow Festa

LG Electronics (LG) launched a new marketing campaign that showcased the powerful audio performance and dynamic style of its LG XBOOM speakers. The campaign ignited with Boom Boom Pow Festa, a unique music festival dedicated to the iconic Black Eyed Peas’ song “Boom Boom Pow.” Released in 2009, this legendary party anthem topped the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 music chart for 12 consecutive weeks. During this exciting and vibrant event, the all-time favorite party song was reinterpreted by talented street performers from around the world and performed through LG’s powerful XBOOM party speakers.

Considered something of a modern classic, “Boom Boom Pow” has become a go-to party track globally, its infectious energy and booming bass inspired revelers of all ages to get to their feet and dance. Street performers in nine different countries took to the stage their own unique takes on the song, supported by the exceptional sound of LG XBOOM. In addition to talented street performers, Boom Boom Pow Festa featured rising stars of the global music scene such as Brazil’s Delacruz, performed at the iconic Escadaria Selarón in Rio de Janeiro, and The Juans, a Filipino four-member pop rock band based in the Philippines.

 

Powered by LG XBOOM party speakers, these exciting performances streamed live on the LG Global YouTube channel as part of a two-hour virtual concert. Videos of the individual performances and behind-the-scenes films that showcased the artists’ creative exploration of LG XBOOM’s dynamic power and energetic audio quality was also available on the same channel.

Brazil

LG’s XBOOM engaging campaign expanded to TikTok with the fun-filled “Boom Boom Pow” dance challenge. Participants can join popular creators to show off their best moves and are encouraged to bring the same explosive energy that XBOOM-brand speakers are known for.

Different LG XBOOM speakers were featured throughout the campaign, each model offering a range of unique benefits along with the brand’s signature power and atmosphere-enhancing features. The LG XBOOM XL9T is a robust tower speaker that amps up the fun with dual 8-inch woofers. Its Pixel LED Lighting feature displays colorful patterns, visual EQ effects, characters or customized text and graphics on the speaker’s LED panel, while Multi Color Ring Lighting creates synchronized lightshows with rotating and flashing effects. Customizable Lighting allows for personalized colors, patterns, animations and messages through the XBOOM app.

The new track-type woofers of XG7Q and XG5Q, produce stunningly loud and clear audio. Its bass enhancement algorithm ensures that every note is heard and felt, even at low volumes. Backed by MIL-SPEC and IP67 ratings, the LG XBOOM Go XG2T combines a rugged, durable and compact design with over 10 hours of playback for the most reliable performance wherever you are.

“We aim to inspire hope for a better life and future with our optimistic ‘Life’s Good’ philosophy, which closely aligns with the positive energy of music and is the driving force behind our Boom Boom Pow Festa and XBOOM campaign,” said Lee Jeong-seok, head of LG Home Entertainment Company’s audio business. “Through a variety of engaging marketing activities, we will continue to highlight the powerful sound of LG XBOOM and raise the profile of our unique speaker brand in the global market.”

Dive into the dynamic journey of LG XBOOM and discover a world of powerful, energetic audio experiences. Life’s about more than having the latest technology; it’s about the experiences technology creates that impact our lives. LG Electronics Philippines delivers top-of-the-line home entertainment appliances that prepare Filipinos for their greatest moments. LG promises to bring "Innovation for a Better Life" nationwide—across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. For more information, visit and follow their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok and Youtube (@lgphilippines). Learn more at @LGGlobal.

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LG’S Brand Reinvention: A Global Success Story

Transformation into a Smart Life Solution Company Fuels Remarkable Growth and Recognition

LG Electronics (LG) has made significant strides in the global market with its innovative brand strategies, earning its place as a top global brand.

On October 10, LG was ranked 97th with a brand value of approximately USD 6.5 billion in the Best Global Brands 2024 report by global brand consulting firm Interbrand.

Interbrand’s evaluation of the Best Global Brands assesses brand value through a comprehensive analysis of a company’s financial performance, role of brand and brand strength. Factors such as direction, engagement and relevance are considered. As a pioneer in the industry, Interbrand’s ISO-certified evaluation criteria are widely regarded as the most reliable methodology in branding and marketing.

LG’s brand value has surged, reflecting significant improvements in both business and brand competitiveness compared to the previous year. LG’s brand value increased by a substantial 38.7 percent year-over-year, receiving high scores in the categories of role of brand and brand strength.

Interbrand attributes this positive assessment to LG’s clear vision as a Smart Life Solution Company and its sustained growth through the exploration of new opportunities. The company has also adapted its brand strategies to ensure consistent customer engagement across diverse regions and generations, utilizing communication methods that resonate with audiences both online and offline.

In July of last year, LG unveiled its vision to evolve into a “Smart Life Solution Company,” enhancing customer experiences across various environments, including homes, commercial spaces, mobility and virtual realms. Since embarking on its transformation, LG’s brand value has skyrocketed. From approximately USD 3.1 billion in 2022, it has more than doubled to about USD 6.5 billion in 2024.

Interbrand has also praised LG’s “Brand Reinvent” initiative, which aims to establish LG as a youthful and dynamic brand that resonates with customers across generations and regions.

To achieve this, LG has unified its brand message under the brand promise of “Life’s Good,” ensuring it is embraced by all organizations globally and integrated into every customer touch point of brand experience. This includes redefining its brand identity and visual expression. “Life’s Good” encapsulates the brand’s mission to help everyone savor life’s precious moments through its products, services and communications. In the digital realm, the brand symbol “Face of the Future” engages customers with a friendly smile and wink, fostering a sense of connection through various digital expressions.

In addition, LG is launching brand campaigns and pop-up events that invite future customers, particularly Generation Z, to engage both online and offline.

The global campaign “Optimism Your Feed” aims to spread positivity through online algorithms, encouraging a better life with an optimistic outlook. This initiative garnered significant attention, amassing over 1.8 billion views within two months of its launch on platforms like YouTube and TikTok.

Moreover, LG is going to keep enhancing its engagement with Generation Z by creating offline customer experience spaces that reflect young customers’ interests, such as lifestyle, games and music.

LG has previously been recognized as one of the top 100 global brands for three consecutive years from 2005 to 2007.

“We are transforming from a leading home appliance and consumer electronics company into a Smart Life Solution Company. As part of this transformation, we’ve initiated our brand reinvention based on our long-standing promise, ‘Life’s Good,’” said William Cho, CEO of LG Electronics. “At this historical moment of business transformation, we are proud to be recognized as one of the top 100 global brands, a testament to our strong brand presence and growth potential.”

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DITO Telecommunity Joins the Colorful Celebration of Bacolod’s 45th MassKara Festival

DITO Transforms Bacolod into a Vibrant Hub of Music, Culture, and Connectivity

DITO Telecommunity is back to bring smiles at this year’s MassKara Festival, one of the Philippines’ most anticipated cultural events. Now celebrating its Sapphire Anniversary in its 45th year, this month-long grand celebration of Bacolod’s rich culture and joyful spirit has earned the city the nickname “City of Smiles.” Known for its Carnival-esque street parades, featuring performers in colorful, ornamented masks and tribal wear, the festival is a vibrant reminder of Bacolod’s inauguration as a city.

Dedicated to connecting Filipinos and promoting local talent and festivities, DITO ensures to create meaningful connections in communities and strengthen Filipino culture through its advanced technology. In collaboration with the City Government of Bacolod, this year’s MassKara Festival is set to be even more thrilling with DITO’s vibrant lineup of activities.

The celebration kicked off with the MassKara Festival Grand Countdown Salubong last October 11, 2024. Get ready for the next few days as DITO brings special awards and cash prizes for various events. First, the Coronation Night for Miss Bacolod MassKara 2024 will take place on October 19, showcasing the city’s finest in beauty and talent. The Miss DITO Telecommunity 2024 special award will be given to the candidate who embodies confidence and passion for community-building. The TODO Na DITO sa MassKara ElekTROIKA Divas is a celebration of women in music, along with the TODO Na DITO sa MassKara Electric Float Parade on October 26. Bacolod’s Best Float of 2024 will be awarded to the parade’s most stunning display. This year's festival will wrap up with the exciting TODO Na DITO MassKara Street Dance & Arena Competition on October 27. The Unity Dance Segment will feature talented groups that will dance to the "TODO NA DITO" tune highlighting their creativity and the community's vibrant energy.

"At DITO, we believe our role as a telecommunications company goes beyond connectivity. We are here to empower communities, celebrate local heritage, and showcase Filipino talent. The MassKara Festival is the perfect platform to showcase Bacolod’s spirit, and we are thrilled to be part of this celebration of culture and creativity,” said Evelyn Jimenez, DITO Chief Revenue Officer for Consumer Business.

Experience the Excitement of DITO Days at MassKara 2024
DITO is set to bring a spectacular three-day celebration packed with excitement and entertainment at the DITO Corporate Block on Lacson Tourism Strip from October 25 to 27, 2024.

Explore the vibrant and interactive DITO Experiential Hub featuring fun-filled and immersive activities, along with a cozy café for everyone to relax. Attendees can take home freebies with the purchase of DITO products, such as the Sim Starter and Level-Up mobile prepaid packs and FLEXPlan postpaid plans. They can also experience a home upgrade with the DITO Home 5G Postpaid WiFi, DITO Home 5G Prepaid WiFi, DITO Home Prepaid Starter Kit, and the newly launched DITO Home WOWFi, the world's first 5G RedCap technology for home use. With its affordable and accessible internet, this Home WiFi will truly make visitors say “WOW!”.

Bacolodnons can also look forward to the TODO Na DITO Contests on all DITO Days, where talented individuals will compete in the TODO Kantahan, TODO Sayawan, and TODO Gaming events. End each night with unforgettable memories as DITO brings the TODO Na DITO MassKara Concert. Enjoy amazing performances from popular artists, including Cup of Joe, known for their hit song “Tingin” on October 25, the dynamic P-pop group ALAMAT who sang “Maharani,” and the talented Hev Abi, popular for his song “Walang Alam,” both performing on October 26, along with other fantastic DJs and local artists, making it a celebration full of great music and energy.

As Bacolod gears up for the MassKara Festival, DITO is ready to power the city’s most awaited moments, keeping everyone connected as they celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of the Filipino spirit. For more details about DITO Telecommunity, check out @DITOphofficial on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok or visit https://dito.ph/.

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BLKNEST theatrebox & TAMBAYAN SA GAMMA present “ANG SUGO AT MAY SALA” on November 3!

BLKNEST’S Thought-provoking one-act play, “ANG SUGO AT MAY SALA” takes center stage at Tambayan sa Gamma this Nov. 3. Featuring the haunting psychological drama that promises an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Unveiling Faith an Humanity Through a New Lens:
“Ang Sugo at may Sala” delves into the complexities of faith, human nature, and the true meaning of accountability. It challenges audiences to question their long-held beliefs and explore how faith shapes their lives.

A Stellar cast Brings the Script to Life:
Seasoned actor Manu Respall delivers a captivating performance as Lusiper (Lucifer) offering a forward perspective on the eternal struggle between good and evil. Ellsworth Ng, makes his theatrical debut as Hesus (Jesus) moving the audience with a deep portrayal of Jesus Christ, rendering a new angle on sacrifice and redemption.

Guided by a Visionary Writer/Director Manu Respall, a director with a passion for storytelling and a keen eye for cinematic expression, brings “Ang Sugo at may Sala” to life. His extensive experience in Theatre, Television, and Film allows him to weave a powerful narrative that transcends boundaries.

Don’t miss this brave and powerful production.

Show date & times:
Nov. 3: 3:00pm & 7:00pm

Location:
2nd floor, Tambayan sa Gamma , Robinsons Cyberscape Gamma Topaz and Ruby roads, Ortigas Centre, Pasig, Metro Manila.

Ticket Prices:

• Students: 700 pesos
• Regular: 950 pesos
• PWD/Senior: 770pesos

For inquiries, contact: Mai Genabe 09272725334

Join us for an unforgettable theatrical experience that will leave you questioning everything you thought you knew. Stay tuned for more details on BLKNEST facebook page!

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